I am now exploring the German mensurs, or fencing students in the 19th century ."The mensur is niether a duel or a sport. It is a traditional way of training acquiring character and personality." Two participants, or "Paukanten"  stand in a fixed position, only separated by an arms length, they raise their swords, or "Korbschlager," and lash at each other in the air. The fight is concluded by the first to draw blood. The victor gains the honor of besting his counter, while his counter gains honor with his scar. There are no winners or losers. I very much enjoy the nature, and structure of this kind of  battle. The protective gear  creates great volume, texture, line and shape.